Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has criticized the government for what he describes as financial mismanagement and rushed decisions regarding the activation of e-gate services at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
Speaking to the media, he expressed concerns over the cost and transparency of the project, as well as its implications for public funds and national sovereignty.
Mr. Agbodza questioned the financial prudence of a deal to activate the e-gates, claiming the costs involved were inflated. “We built the $250 million Terminal 3 at Kotoka International Airport to the highest standards. Yet, we are now being told that e-gate services will cost $147 million, even though initial estimates were much lower. Why should this cost so much, and what is the justification?” he asked.
He alleged that private entities involved in the project were exploiting the situation to fleece the public. “There are plans to charge $5 per passenger to recover costs. This is unacceptable, especially when the airport was constructed with significant public investment,” he noted.
The Minority Chief Whip also accused the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Immigration Service of rushing to sign agreements with private companies without due diligence. “These agreements are being pushed through hastily, and accounts are already being set up to facilitate payments. I want to warn those involved: this is illegal, and when the new administration takes over, they will be held accountable,” he said.
He pointed out that the Immigration Service already provides integrated services at the airport and questioned the necessity of outsourcing the e-gate system. “This is a clear duplication of efforts and a misuse of public funds. Why should we spend $147 million on a system when the entire Terminal 3 was built for $250 million?” he asked.
Mr. Agbodza also criticized the Vice President for endorsing the activation of the e-gates without addressing these financial and operational concerns. “The Vice President should have known better. This project reeks of inefficiency and public exploitation,” he added.
The Minority Chief Whip issued a stern warning to public officials involved in signing agreements for the project. “Do not proceed with this illegality. Those compelling you to act hastily will not be in office after January 7, and you will bear the consequences,” he cautioned.
Mr. Agbodza further emphasize the need for transparency and accountability. He urged the government to focus on addressing pressing issues, such as resolving debts owed to contractors, rather than rushing into agreements that could burden the country with additional financial obligations.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
